Shi Shi Beach

Our weekend was spent backpacking in the unforgettable Olympic National Park.  Our 10 mile (round trip) journey took us through a coastal rainforest filled with unique flora and fauna, ancient groves and spectacular beaches.  Shi Shi Beach was our final destination, where we setup camp on a cliff overlooking hoodoo rocks and breath-taking views of the Pacific Ocean.  The day was spent climbing among the 3 arches, wading through tidal pools and exploring the idyllic beach.   Though whale sightings are not uncommon, we only spotted bald eagles, sea lions and a plethora of other sea life.  When dusk set in we celebrated with a beach campfire and tasty caramel s'mores.  Shi Shi Beach was my first attempt at backcountry camping and though I thoroughly enjoyed the solitude of this beautiful beach, I missed the comforts of civilization entirely too much to try this again.  ;-)

Mt. St. Helens

Hello again!  Due to the flu and a bout bronchitis, I am little behind on postings.  Now that I am back on track, I hope the next few posts were worth the wait!

The mister and I ventured South to Mount St. Helens last weekend.  The Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is about a three-hour drive from Seattle and the landscape is unbelievable.  There are so many options for exploring this "slumbering giant" ranging from short day hikes, backcountry hiking, or just a quick stop at the Johnston Ridge Observatory.  The latter was our choice and it did not disappoint.  It was a gorgeous day to explore and take in the rich geological history of this spectacular mountain. 

On May 18, 1980 Mount St. Helens erupted and forever changed the scenic landscape of the Cascade Mountain Range.  It was the deadliest eruption the U.S. had ever seen.  The blast was so powerful, it leveled everything within a 200 mile radius and spread a blanket of ash as far as Montana.  It's been 35 years ago to this day and the devastation is still hauntingly apparent.   The once majestic dome has been replaced by a mile wide crater.  Climbers can reach the rim of the volcano through varying routes on the South side of the mountain, which offers a first hand view of the ever-changing interior. Though it is not without risk, a goal of mine is to hopefully summit this beauty one day.   

Serenity Now!

Hi family and friends!  I apologize for the hiatus, but the past few weeks have been super busy with volunteering at the Chimp Sanctuary, training for the half, and preparing for my new job.  Yes, you read that right.  I am now gainfully employed and ecstatic to start work as an educator with a local museum!  This job will allow me to combine my passion for teaching with my love of History, Art, and Science.  The best part is this new position is flexible and will not interfere with travel! 

<insert fist bumps here>

 

Speaking of travel...

The mister and I hiked to Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls this past weekend.  This beautiful hike is 8 miles out and back with a 2100 ft elevation gain.  Despite being rated as strenuous, it is a popular trail that boasts spectacular views of waterfalls, Mt. Index and alpine lakes.  

Emerald City Comi-Con

Hello, Spring!

A time for sandals, shaved legs, lots of rain and the Emerald City Comi-Con.  Donning our new nerd inspired tees, the mister and I set out for downtown Seattle Friday afternoon to check this event out.  We did not attend any panels or games, but we did have a great time checking out all of the costumes! 

Seattle Refined

Half-Marathon Training

Green Lake; Thursday afternoon

It's been a while since my last training post, so I thought I would update you guys on my progress.  This week has been tough with all of the rain and cold.  I've not been as motivated  to get out; only ran three times.  In addition, my weekly long run has been a real struggle.  I've felt sluggish, my breathing was off and I hurt all over.  Overall, I've felt defeated!  

The weather changed drastically for the better Thursday, so I met a friend for a 30 minute run at Green Lake.  The beautiful weather rallied my spirits and my running seemed to improve.  I even shaved off a minute on my running pace!  I hope to continue to do better this week; however, I cannot make any promises since I will be making my way to Florida soon.  

Happy trails!  :-) 

My schedule this week: (completed)

• Sunday - Long Run ~ 4.5 mi.
• Monday - Pure Barre ~ 50 min.
• Tuesday - Off 
• Wednesday - Speed-Play Run ~ 30 min.
• Thursday - Off
• Friday - Foundation Run ~ 30 min.
• Saturday -  Fast Finish Run ~ 30 min.

Green Lake; Thursday afternoon

The Feathers

This weekend a few new friends and I headed to Vantage to explore the area known as Frenchman's Coulee.  Surrounded by basalt columns, we spent Saturday climbing a variety of routes in the Feathers area.  We warmed up with Shake It Don't Break It (5.5) and finished off with Uprising (5.8).  I had my eye on Satan's Little Helper, but just could not muster enough sinful pride to attempt this 5.9 route.  Maybe next time.  Overall, it was a fantastic day and I cannot wait to get back!